Exclusive Wine Cruise Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise) Mar 30 - Apr 6, 2026

host_image

Hosted by Mike Lewellen, Managing Partner, Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards, Solvang, CA

Founded by the late Judge Royce Lewellen, and long-time grape grower Louis Lucas in 1996, Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards has been producing fine grapes and wine for many years. Royce’s son Mike Lewellen became a minority owner of the company in 1999 and joined the company full-time in 2009 to help manage the operation as it grows into the future. As Managing Partner, Mike carries out business planning and analysis and works with all departments at the winery; Marketing & Sales, Finance, the Tasting Rooms, and of course the Winery. Prior to Lucas and Lewellen, Mike worked for over 16 years in the multi-channel retail business. Working at different times as Marketing Director, Circulation Manager and Inventory Planner, he gained valuable experience that he has applied toward the wine business. Mike was raised in Solvang, California near the vineyards, has a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Colorado, a Professional Designation in Business Management from UCLA, and has furthered his wine education through programs at U.C. Davis.

Expertly Curated WINE EXPERIENCES

Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. Whether you have a seasoned appreciation for fine wine, or simply indulge in a sip here and there, this is a wonderful way to uncork the traditions of the local culture and learn about the region you’re visiting.

About the Wine Region – The Lower Danube

From the grand architecture of Budapest to the mystical “Iron Gates” to the spirit of Dracula, the lower Danube is filled with intrigue. Our Gems of Southeast Europe itinerary journeys through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, where you can taste the diversity of five countries’ age-old winemaking traditions. Southeast of the Riesling-rich Wachau Valley, the lower Danube wine regions offer a rich variety. The Szekszárd wine region is one of the oldest red wine growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. Known for producing Kadarka grapes, most notably used in the blend known as Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), the region also produces many full-bodied and spicy reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Kékfrankos and Merlot. In Serbia, a fruity plum brandy known as Šlivovitz is the drink of choice, a fitting addition to warm cocktails, while in Croatia, the town of Ilok has a winegrowing history dating back to Roman times, where cellars mature such varietals as Traminac, Riesling, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay.

Overview Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)


7-night Cruise

Cruise From: Budapest to Giurgiu

Touch history and learn about winemaking traditions while sailing along the lower Danube River through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. Wine connoisseurs will have a chance to taste history from the centuries-old winegrowing hills dating back to the Romans. Be treated to the flavors, sights, sounds and cultures of this diverse swath of the continent. Taste Bulgarian wine in Vidin and visit one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Szekszárd. With a dedicated wine expert to guide you, indulge in wine tastings and a specially curated food and wine pairing dinner on board. Venture off the beaten path and enjoy an epicurean adventure that includes brandy and local wines in five distinctive countries.

COUNTRIES: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia

RIVERS: Danube

Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise) At A Glance

On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and special interest tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Expand All
Collapse All

Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

Included Features Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)


7-night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
  • Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations
  • Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
  • Bottled water replenished daily

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES

  • Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sun-deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
  • Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
  • Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
  • Daily entertainment including cultural performances

AWARD-WINNING DINING

  • All onboard dining in a variety of venues
  • Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
  • The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
  • Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
  • Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
  • Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge

A WORLD OF EXPLORATION

  • Immersive tours in every destination
  • Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
  • Bike tours and hikes
  • Special interest tours
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Personal headset for easy exploration
  • Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways

Dates & Prices Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)

EMBARK March 30
7-NIGHT CRUISEBudapestGiurgiu
Save $500 Per Stateroom
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 2 NIGHTS VIENNA PRE-CRUISE AND 2 NIGHTS BRASOV, 2 NIGHTS BUCHAREST POST-CRUISE
ADD 2 NIGHTS VIENNA PRE-CRUISE AND 3 NIGHTS ISTANBUL POST-CRUISE
Category E
Fixed window
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category D
Fixed window
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category C
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $1,499 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category BB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,099 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category BA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category AB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,499 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category AA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,699 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Suite
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
350 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $3,999 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck

Notes:

ImportantDates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise price)$250 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of twin price; AA+ and Suite 100% of twin price.

Single Supplement for Cruise (AmaMagna)Category E and D 25% of twin price; Category AB, AA, SB and SA 50% of twin price; Category Grand Suite and Owners Suite 100% of twin price.

Single Supplement for LandA single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.

VisaA Turkish Tourist Visa is required for entry into Istanbul, Turkey. All guests traveling to Turkey must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) prior to their departure date.

BeddingPlease select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

Terms & Conditions:

All rates are per person for cruise only, inclusive of port charges and are based on double occupancy in an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Offers are valid on select sailings only and applicable to new bookings only. Unless explicitly stated that single supplement is waived, solo travelers in a double occupancy stateroom must pay an additional single supplement amount before receiving any discounts. Ask about Solo Traveler promotions. Offers are not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Stateroom upgrades, optional land programs and round-trip airfare are not included in cruise price. Other restrictions apply. AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. CST#2065452-20.

Ships Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)

AmaBella

The AmaBella offers the ultimate in custom-designed luxury. This 161-passenger vessel features a combination of amenities and design details.Learn more

Experience More Connections

Welcome to the grand cosmopolitan city of Budapest – long a center of great beauty, elegance and sophistication.
Read more
Have a wickedly good time as you take a bite off your bucket list, visiting the castle that inspired the story of Dracula in legendary Transylvania.
Read more
Return to a land of kings and queens, knights and ladies, and fables and legends in the ancient medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo and its Tsarevets Castle.
Read more